What better way to spend time with friends and family than by renting a houseboat? Kentucky residents enjoy houseboating and frequently visit Lake Cumberland, which is located in the small town of Somerset. Travelers can rent boats of varying sizes to fit most budgets for their water-based vacation. Somerset, a charming small town in Pulaski County, has a population of slightly more than 10,000 people. This place, on the other hand, packs a powerful punch, with plenty to offer both locals and visitors. SomerSplash Waterpark, which attracts visitors from all over the region, is one of its most well-known attractions.

Somerset is also known as Kentucky's "Car Cruise Capital", and you can witness this event for yourself on select nights from April to October. Each month, downtown transforms into an outdoor car show with a different theme. Amon's Sugar Shack must be visited while visiting all of these fun places around town. This family-owned local favorite not only serves incredible sweets, but also delicious comfort food in a nostalgic setting. There are a number of parks in Somerset and the surrounding area. These vary in size and features, but they will keep you entertained while you are outside. Elgie Woods Piano Park, pictured below, is possibly the most unique and offers live music all year.

Shelbyville is a horse lover's paradise, but there's so much more to this enchanting area. So much so, in fact, that this little slice of Kentucky heaven has quietly preserved its historic charm while thriving with modern expectations. If you haven't been here before, you should definitely come back. Shelbyville, founded in 1792, is steeped in history. This charming town, known as the American Saddlebred Capital of the World, has a lot to offer. Located in the heart of horse country, there are numerous scenic drives through horse farms, as well as numerous entertaining horse shows held throughout the year.

Shelbyville is well-known for this distinction, but it has gradually expanded its repertoire over the years and now has much more to offer. Claudia Sanders Dinner House is a well-known restaurant in Shelbyville. Colonel Sanders himself opened this restaurant in honor of his wife, Claudia, and you must dine here at least once during your visit to the area. It's not revolutionary or cutting-edge, but it offers a classic southern experience with some of the best fried chicken you'll ever taste. The Bell House Restaurant is another classic restaurant in the area that manages to keep its cool factor.

When it comes to dining, Shelbyville is known for its classic southern style, but there are also plenty of modern options. Shelbyville's central location makes it easy to find things to do. There are several options within the city limits, as well as a short drive to countless others. You can visit a number of bourbon trail stops, but you should start with a local, beautiful destination - Jeptha Creed Distillery. Enjoy a tour, a tasting, and a delicious lunch on this beautiful property.

Bardstown, Kentucky, has long been regarded as one of the best small towns in the United States, having been named The Most Beautiful Small Town in America by Rand McNally and USA Today. Other honors are frequently bestowed upon the town, and it's easy to see why. This little piece of Kentucky could be a movie set. Bardstown was founded in 1780 and was named after the Bard Brothers, who purchased the land and surveyed the town. The charm starts the moment you cross the town line. You can walk the historic streets or hire the Around the Town Carriage to take you on a whimsical horse and buggy tour.

Bardstown is most well-known for its bourbon distilleries. When most people think of Kentucky bourbon, they think of Bardstown. This tiny town is the world's bourbon capital, and almost all of its 11 distilleries offer tastings and tours. You might be in a reflective mood after a few bourbon tours. The Bernheim Arboretum and Research Center, a natural preserve and forest displaying beautiful wood sculptures handcrafted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, is the next stop. Make My Old Kentucky Dinner Train a part of your Bardstown itinerary. This experience harkens back to a more glamorous era of travel, when well-dressed upper crusters would dine in a railcar on their way to a fantastic vacation. You can eat a gourmet meal on the train as it travels through bourbon country.

Berea, Kentucky is a mountain town in the center of this state with an interesting history, artistic flair, and natural beauty that is truly as cool as it claims to be. This Kentucky town has had a wonderfully distinct personality since before it was even known as Berea. The city is known for historic Berea College, the South's first interracial and coeducational college, as well as a thriving arts community and an abundance of natural beauty.

In many ways, Berea has always seemed ahead of its time, and the city also clings to the traditions of diversity, social justice, environmental responsibility, and community service, which can be found all over this cool mountain town. Many artists live in Berea, and both locals and visitors appreciate their talents and passion. Artisan Village and the Kentucky Artisan Center are excellent places to visit to get to the heart of the art scene. Throughout the year, there are also several fairs and festivals where you can browse, experience, and shop for a wide range of items such as pottery, jewelry, instruments, paintings, glass, and much, much more. The Berea Craft Festival, held in July at the Indian Fort Theater, is the most popular event.

Berea residents, college students, and visitors all enjoy gathering for a variety of events throughout the year. It's a festive town full of spirit and friendly faces, with plenty of opportunities for socializing. You can even enjoy a beautiful hot air balloon glow if you visit during the popular Spoonbread Festival in September. Throughout the year, you can board a trolley that stops at all of the major attractions around town.

Pikeville has twice been named by Norm Crampton in his book, The 100 Best Small Towns in America, as one of the best small towns in America. The Pikeville Cut-Through Project, one of the largest and most impressive civil engineering feats in history, is located in Pikeville. The project was completed in October 1987. The legendary Hatfield-McCoy Feud sites can be found all over Pikeville and Pike County, Kentucky. Each location has a marker that tells tragic stories from the feud, serving as a reminder of past mistakes and the cost of holding a grudge.

If you could only visit one town in Kentucky and see everything it has to offer, Pikeville would be an excellent choice. Outdoor enthusiasts can go horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and even ziplining in the Appalachian Mountains. There are also frequent performing arts performances at the Jenny Wiley Theatre and the Artists Collaborative Theatre. Live music, particularly country music, can be heard all over town, either as an organized performance or spontaneously on the streets. History buffs can visit the historical Hatfield and McCoy feud site, where two rival families fought strategically over local land and business, developing some of the state's strongest points of interest in the process.

Murray, Kentucky is one of the most welcoming towns in the Bluegrass State, but there's something special about it. This college town, located just west of Kentucky Lake, has it all: amazing restaurants, scenic beauty, and a friendly, small-town atmosphere. Murray has been dubbed the "Friendliest Town in America" by USA Today, and once you visit this small town in Kentucky, you'll see why. Murray is a town in southwestern Kentucky with a population of just under 20,000 people. It's not too big, not too small; it's just right, as Goldilocks would say.

Murray is well-known for a variety of reasons. Outdoor enthusiasts know it as the Gateway to Kentucky Lake; a place to eat (or stay) before entering this epic natural playground. Murray State University, a modern and forward-thinking institution known for its classic, historic charm, is known to college-bound students and families as its home. It's a fantastic public university with a lovely campus and a student body of around 10,000. Murray's downtown is full of charming local shops, restaurants, and businesses to explore. Wander through town and try one of the tasty restaurants; there's even a walking tour to help you along the way. Depending on when you visit, you may encounter a friendly face or two while strolling through town! Murray, Kentucky is the kind of place that is warm and welcoming.

Kentucky is made up of many small towns, each with their own distinct charm and personality. So, what makes a town truly Kentucky? You have a town that shines in the Bluegrass State when you have beautiful surroundings, a charming downtown, plenty of history, and that unbridled spirit within the community. Greenville is such a town, and if you haven't stopped by yet, you should definitely plan a visit. If you're looking for a small town in Kentucky with a lot of heart and character, Greenville is a great place to visit. Greenville would be in the center of a triangle connecting Owensboro, Paducah, and Bowling Green, right in the heart of Western Kentucky.

Greenville's charming Main Street is the beating heart of the city and is quickly becoming a destination in and of itself. It's a lively place to stroll and explore, with local restaurants and shops scattered along the street. Aunt M's Cafe, which claims to serve the best burgers in town, is a local favorite. There are also a number of shops and boutiques, as well as plenty of history. The Muhlenberg County Courthouse is unquestionably Greenville's focal point. The stunning structure, which was built in 1907, serves as a beautiful backdrop for many town events and gatherings. It is also the second largest clock tower dome in the state of Kentucky, and it is a sight to behold. Greenville's unbridled spirit is on display with plenty of festive fun.

La Grange is a unique Kentucky town in Oldham County near Louisville that has a little bit of everything and is ideal for visiting at any time of year. La Grange is well known for being the only town in America with an active train running down Main Street. While it is one of the town's most distinctive features and the first thing you notice, there is much more to do in this historic town. The significance of trains in this town is obvious everywhere you look. It's depicted on flags, city benches, and, of course, an observation tower on the outskirts of town. La Grange is a very walkable small town where you can accomplish a lot just by strolling around. A good parking spot is near the Courthouse lawn, which frequently hosts special events throughout the year.

The La Grange Farmer's Market, which runs from May to October, is one of the most popular events. Local farms with their produce, fresh cut flowers, handmade items, and more can be found here. There are several delicious places to eat right on Main Street, many of which have front-row views of the train. The Red Pepper Deli, pictured below, serves delicious sandwiches, soups, and salads. One Nineteen West Main is also ideal for a traditional southern meal in a relaxed setting. La Grange is the county seat of Oldham County and the location of the county's History Center. This newly renovated museum is much more than a small-town historical society. You'll find cutting-edge exhibits and an interactive way to learn about the area's history here.

Maysville is nestled along the Ohio River, and this historic and vibrant town is the pick for Kentucky's most charming town. Maysville is located on the banks of the Ohio River in northeastern Kentucky, about an hour from Cincinnati and Lexington. The town is well-known for its scenic riverfront views and massive bridge, but there is so much more to this Kentucky region. Maysville's mix of old and new is one of its most appealing features. Maysville has a colorful history that includes Frontiersmen Simon Kenton and Daniel Boone, among others. Maysville's location along the Ohio River has always been important to the city's economy and livelihood.

Much manufacturing took place in town, and the goods were then shipped downriver. Today, you'll see barges and other boats passing by, as well as scenic views from various towns and bridges. This small town's architecture truly distinguishes it. Thankfully, Maysville has recognized the value of its 18th-century structures and is working hard to preserve them. Historic structures such as the Russell Theatre, the Washington Opera House, the Courthouse, and numerous churches have been or are being restored. These lovely structures dot the Maysville skyline and add to the charm of a stroll down the brick-lined streets. Maysville has a vibrant present and a promising future, in addition to its rich history.

Midway, located in one of Kentucky's most beautiful areas, is an ideal day trip or weekend getaway. It's a beautiful drive through horse country no matter which route you take. The area is enchanted by the tree-lined streets, horse farms, and scenic distilleries. Midway's Main Street has everything a small town should have. The colorful, historic buildings line the street, which is nostalgically crossed by a railroad track. You could easily mistake yourself for being on a movie set any day of the week. Midway is the type of town where the City Hall and Visitor's Center are located in the same building, right in the heart of town.

The streets are lined with local boutiques, restaurants, antique shops, and museums, all of which are staffed by friendly Midway residents eager to share their enthusiasm for their hometown. Railroad Drug and Old Time Soda Fountain add to the enchantment, the type of store where they recognize you when you walk in and you can't leave without a sweet treat. The surrounding neighborhoods off Main Street are adorned with colorful, charismatic homes. Walk along the white picket fences and brightly painted houses and be transported back to a simpler time. Mount Vernon Church, also in Versailles, is a stunning architectural display that is especially charming nestled beside a horse farm.